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Merrily Preston

An intentional life facilitator who lives in Woodbridge and is the author of the popular advice column "Ask Merrily," which is exclusive to Local Kicks. Preston's professional guidance enables her clients to make conscious choices that are in their best interest, so as to live an intentional life.

Articles By Merrily Preston

ASK MERRILY/Mom's care and estate

Jan 29,2009

Mother became ill a few years ago and put my brother (B1) in charge of her estate and care. My brother (B2) and I are upset because his focus is saving money and preserving the estate. Our focus is the best possible care for her. The problem is that we have NO say in the matter since B1 is in charge. He takes our suggestions as attacks on his judgment.

ASK MERRILY/Funeral

Jan 29,2009

My husband and I are scheduled to go on a once-in-a-lifetime all-expenses-paid trip to London. My 87-year old grandfather is in failing health and has weeks to live. What should I do if my grandfather passes while I am overseas? Should I come back for the funeral? My husband would not be able to come back early with me. Or, should I "say my goodbyes" before I leave?

ASK MERRILY/Stop Gifting Me

Jan 06,2009

I have a friend who often gives me things for my home that I really do not like. I have tried to only put them out when she comes to visit but she has begun to come by "just to stop in".

ASK MERRILY / War Movies

Dec 30,2008

Dear Merrily, My husband is a veteran who likes to watch war movies in the evenings on TV. I hate them as they give me nightmares. I usually read in the other room, but I'd rather be where he is - we are both busy and our time together is special. I have mentioned this to him, but it doesn't seem to register. Have you any suggestions?

ASK MERRILY/ Absolutely Annoyed

Dec 30,2008

Dear Merrily, Your answer is fine to a point. But, I need good time for me, not just always being a good wife and mother for someone else. I need real relationships that do not always ask me to be patient and giving. I need to have me be a priority at least to me. Your answer may be right, but there are times, right now being one of them, when I am absolutely annoyed at being told I just need to nurture a little more.

ASK MERRILY / Funeral

Dec 25,2008

My husband and I are scheduled to go on a once-in-a-lifetime all-expenses-paid trip to London. My 87-year old grandfather is in failing health and has weeks to live. What should I do if my grandfather passes while I am overseas? Should I come back for the funeral? My husband would not be able to come back early with me. Or, should I "say my goodbyes" before I leave?

ASK MERRILY/Car Sick

Dec 25,2008

I have a good friend Emily who wants to carpool to choir rehearsal 20 miles away. But when I ride with her I get carsick because she pulses with her accelerator foot, fast/slow, fast/slow. She is beginning to wonder why I am never available to ride with her. How do I explain to her?

ASK MERRILY/New Career

Dec 25,2008

Dear Merrily, I want to start a new career. In order to do this, I need a lot of time and energy for writing and thinking and being creative. My problem is that I've allowed my daughter to take up all my time and most of my energy. She'll be a senior in the Fall and with college applications and driving her everywhere etc. I fear there will be no time left for me let alone time to create a new career.